11/11/2025
Today we take time to honor all the veterans in our community and in our lives: our neighbors, friends, and loved ones who have served with courage and sacrifice. Thank you for your service and for the strength and compassion you bring home to our community. We’re grateful for you today and every day!
Despite the chilly weather, a dedicated crowd came out for the Veterans Day ceremony this morning at Hubbard Green, featuring guest speaker Linda Schwartz and performances by the Glastonbury High School Concert Choir and Treble Choir, and the Smith Middle School Select Chorus. Ms. Schwartz—the first woman and nurse to become Connecticut’s Commissioner of Veterans Affairs in 2003—spoke about the bravery and selflessness of servicepeople she served with and tended to as an officer and flight nurse in the U.S. Air Force. These included the late John Lee Levitow, Glastonbury resident and decorated Air Force pilot who was awarded the Medal of Honor for saving the lives of his fellow crew members despite being critically injured with dozens of shrapnel wounds during the Vietnam War.
On this Veterans Day, let’s celebrate the courageous service of people like Linda and John and keep showing up for our veterans all year long. In fact, at tonight’s Council meeting, we expect to pass an ordinance expanding tax benefits for disabled veterans.
